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Sunday, November 20, 2011

Getting to Know You: Education

Recently, while rereading Washington Irving's famous short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” I paused at the author's description of the one-room schoolhouse where the ill-fated Ichabod Crane once taught. As I imagined such a setting, I began to reflect on the concept of education – how it's changed over the years, how it's different from place to place, and how it doesn't always involve traditional schooling.

So, authors and characters, I was just wondering...

What was your education like? Did you attend official schools and universities? Did your family or clan teach you everything you know? Are you a self-taught individual? Or did your education come in some other way?

So, I hope you, Jesse, and the rest of the Hollowites had a nice holiday. Michael, the kids, and I had an uneventful - if delicious - time. I'm truly thankful for them - and for our scrumptious leftovers!

Saxen says she can't cook but she prepared a lovely dinner for me last night. I was thankful. My education was conducted at home, with my father and various other tutors. I thought that was difficult until my great-uncle took over. His methods were most severe.

Oh, I don't mind Saxen, Marenya. The image was just a little gruesome for me, but I can handle it. After all, I've seen my share of nasty things on the road.

As for Thanksgiving, Ginger, Indy and I had a pleasant one. Indy caught a wild turkey, and we bought a few veggies from a nearby farmer, so we were actually well fed - and quite thankful. We're still on the road - probably will be for a while - but recently acquiring a tent has made it a whole lot easier.